Feminism has long been a force for positive change. From fighting for women’s right to vote in the 20th century to ensuring equal opportunities in education and work, the movement has had a profound impact on society. However, in the 21st century, there’s growing concern that feminism, or at least certain aspects of it, is straying from its roots of equality. Critics argue that it has become less about addressing systemic inequalities and more about vilifying men, leaving many questioning whether modern feminism is losing its way.

This criticism isn’t a blanket dismissal of feminism as a whole but a call to scrutinize its current trajectory. Has feminism, once synonymous with fairness, evolved into something more divisive?

From Equality to Division?

Historically, feminism has been about leveling the playing field. The suffragist movement was built on the principle that women deserved the same civic rights as men. Later, second-wave feminism tackled issues like workplace discrimination, reproductive rights, and domestic violence. These efforts weren’t about tearing anyone down—they were about lifting women up to stand equally with men.

But today, many argue that feminism has splintered into factions, some of which seem less focused on equality and more on resentment. Misandry—the dislike or hatred of men—has crept into certain spaces that identify as feminist.

Why Some See Modern Feminism as Hostile

1. Blaming All Men for Systemic Issues:

A recurring theme in modern feminist rhetoric is that men, as a group, are responsible for systemic oppression. While it’s true that patriarchal structures have historically marginalized women, blaming all men for these problems can feel unfair and alienating.

2. Dismissing Men’s Issues:

There’s a perception that modern feminism largely ignores or trivializes issues affecting men, such as mental health struggles, workplace dangers, and unfair treatment in family courts. This one-sided focus creates resentment, as it seems to suggest that men’s challenges don’t matter.

3. Extreme Voices Online:

Social media has amplified extreme perspectives. Hashtags like “#KillAllMen” and memes mocking male suffering are far from representative of most feminists, but they’ve become symbols of how some corners of the movement appear toxic and exclusionary.

These attitudes can leave men feeling demonized, not because of their actions, but simply for being men. This is where the criticism of modern feminism as “evilism” takes root.

The Impact of Extremism

Extremism in any ideology is dangerous, and feminism is no exception. When any movement becomes too radicalized, it risks alienating the very people it hopes to influence. By painting men as villains, radical feminism creates division instead of fostering collaboration.

But this doesn’t represent all feminists. Many are working to address gender inequality in ways that benefit everyone—men and women alike. It’s important to separate the extremists from the broader movement.

What About Men’s Issues?

A common critique is that modern feminism often overlooks significant challenges faced by men:

Mental Health: Men have higher suicide rates, yet societal norms discourage them from seeking help.

Family Courts: In custody battles, men often face an uphill battle, reinforcing outdated stereotypes about caregiving.

Workplace Hazards: Men dominate dangerous industries and suffer higher rates of workplace fatalities.

Addressing these issues isn’t about undermining women’s rights; it’s about acknowledging that gender equality is a two-way street.

Feminism’s True Potential

At its best, feminism is about creating a fair society where everyone, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to thrive. But to achieve this, modern feminism needs to confront its extremes. Blaming or marginalizing one group to uplift another isn’t equality—it’s just a reversal of oppression.

The Way Forward

Feminism doesn’t have to be divisive. It can be a movement that includes men, recognizes their struggles, and advocates for fairness across the board. By focusing on shared goals rather than assigning blame, feminism can return to its roots as a force for equality.

The future of feminism lies in balance. It’s about lifting women up without tearing men down, creating partnerships rather than battles, and fostering understanding over resentment. Only then can feminism remain a movement for true progress.

Feminism: Empowerment or Alienation? Unpacking the complexities of the movement